Standardization News

All interested parties are invited to join in the development of a proposed new ASTM International standard that would be used during the design and installation of suspended gypsum ceiling systems for commercial construction. WK44242, Practice for Installation of Metal Suspension Ceiling Systems for Gypsum Board Applications, is being developed by Subcommittee C11.03 on Specifications for the Application of Gypsum and Other Products in Assemblies, part of ASTM International Committee C11 on Gypsum and Related Building Materials and Systems.

According to Joseph J. Kelly, technical services manager, Worthington Armstrong Venture, and a C11 member, several requests from the California engineering and regulatory community have led to the ongoing development of WK44242.

The products described in WK44242 are designed and installed where suspended drywall systems are used in most commercial construction, including hospitals, schools, churches, retail and other commercial spaces.

"WK44242 will give manufacturers and contractors a guideline for the best seismic installation practice," says Kelly. He also notes that the proposed standard will be based on E580/E580M, Practice for Installation of Ceiling Suspension Systems for Acoustical Tile and Lay-In Panels in Areas Subject to Earthquake Ground Motions, developed by ASTM Committee E33 on Building and Environmental Acoustics, as well as other ASTM standards related to gypsum board and gypsum board framing systems.

CONTACT Technical Information: Joseph J. Kelly, Worthington Armstrong Venture • Malvern, Pa. • Phone: 610-722-1218 | ASTM Staff: Thomas O'Toole • Phone: 610-832-9739 | Upcoming Meeting: May 5-8 • May Committee Week • Toronto, Ontario, Canada